ure the others would follow his lead--would do whatever he
said. He agreed with me that this was no war of ours, and added that as
long as kings and emperors were using us to do their will, there was no
reason why we shouldn't confiscate the property of kings and emperors to
gain a few advantages for ourselves."

"By Jove!" exclaimed Davis. "The fellow reasons well. He may prove the
very man for us." And he added to himself: "It would be a good thing to
have another Englishman with me, if he is of the right sort."

The conversation continued for some moments, and then Davis said:

"Say, one of you fellows, tell Edwards I want to see him now."

One of the men departed, and returned a moment later, followed by
Edwards. Davis engaged him in conversation and the two talked in low
tones for perhaps five minutes. Then Davis turned to the others.

"I can see no reason why we should wait longer," he said. "Bernstorff
and one of his officers is ashore. There remains only one and the crew.
We can dispose of the one officer easily enough, and as for the crew, I
am of the opinion that most of them will join us."

"Then," said Edwards, "if you will wait here until I return I will get
my other men."

"It would be better that way," agreed Davis. "There will be seven of us
and that should be enough. Hurry."

Edwards withdrew. First he made his way to where O'Brien and McDonald
were asleep, and, rousing them, bade them follow him; but instead of
returning to Davis' quarters, he led the way rapidly to where Jack stood
upon the bridge.

Edwards explained the situation in a few brief words and Jack was
dumbfounded.

"And you say Davis is preparing to spring this coup to-night?" exclaimed
Jack.

"Right now, sir," returned Edwards quietly. "That's why I brought
O'Brien and McDonald here. We are all armed, sir."

"Oh, we are more than a match for Davis and his trio of conspirators,"
Jack agreed. "The only thing that troubles me is that the others of the
crew may join him. We shall have to act quickly. Follow me."

He drew his revolver and led the way below. There he hurried straight to
Davis' quarters and flung open the door. Then he stopped in surprise.

"No one here," he ejaculated.

He was right. Davis and the others had gone; and though Jack did not
know it, they were at that moment aft haranguing the crew, who had
gathered about them eagerly.

Every man aboard the ship was now armed, for Lord Hastings had decided
it w